This Broccoli Cheddar Focaccia Bread is a total game-changer! Imagine fluffy, pillowy focaccia infused with sharp cheddar cheese and vibrant broccoli florets. It’s the perfect combination of savory and cheesy, with a delightful texture that will have you reaching for another piece (and another, and another…). Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, a side dish, or even a light lunch, this focaccia is guaranteed to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Cheesy: The sharp cheddar cheese and earthy broccoli create a delicious savory flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.
Fluffy and Pillowy: The unique texture of focaccia bread is what makes it so special, and this recipe delivers that perfectly.
Easy to Make: Don’t be intimidated by the stretch and fold technique – it’s easier than it sounds, and the results are worth it!
Versatile: Enjoy this focaccia on its own, dip it in soup or olive oil, or use it as a base for sandwiches.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Focaccia Bread:

For the Focaccia:

Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create a fluffy dough.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
Active dry yeast: The key ingredient for creating that airy texture.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and gives the focaccia its characteristic chewiness.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and flavor, plus it’s used for greasing the pan.

For the Mix-ins:

Broccoli: Finely chopped and cooked, it adds a vibrant color and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Grated, it provides that irresistible cheesy goodness.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the warm water, salt, yeast, and olive oil with a spoon until dissolved.
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be wet and jiggly. Adjust the amount of water if needed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold

Prepare a bowl of warm water.
With wet hands, perform four stretch and folds:
- Lift the North side of the dough and fold it over itself.
- Lift the South side and fold it over itself.
- Lift the East side and fold it over itself.
- Lift the West side and fold it over itself.
Lift the dough and coil it under itself. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
Repeat the stretch and fold process 3 more times, for a total of 4 sets of stretch and folds.

Step 3: Assemble the Focaccia

Gently transfer the dough to a greased 9×13 inch pan.
Sprinkle half of the broccoli and cheddar cheese over the dough.
Fold the dough into thirds, then flip it lengthwise in the pan. Lightly press the dough into the pan without degassing it.
Drizzle with olive oil and top with the remaining broccoli and cheddar cheese.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the focaccia rest for 1 hour.

Step 4: Bake the Focaccia

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Dimple the focaccia dough lightly with your fingertips.
Bake for 30-32 minutes, or until lightly golden and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
Let the focaccia rest for 5 minutes in the pan, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures that your focaccia is perfectly baked.
Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry focaccia.
Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, vegetables, or herbs.

How to Serve

Enjoy it fresh: This focaccia is best enjoyed warm from the oven.
Dip it: Serve it alongside soup, olive oil, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Make it a meal: Use the focaccia as a base for sandwiches or paninis.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating

Reheat the focaccia in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère.

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of cooked?

Yes, but make sure to blanch the broccoli florets for a few minutes before adding them to the dough. This will help them cook evenly in the oven.

Can I make this focaccia ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, bring it to room temperature, shape it, and bake as directed.

Can I freeze this focaccia?

Yes, you can freeze baked focaccia. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.¹

Enjoy this delicious and versatile Broccoli Cheddar Focaccia Bread!